Online Reporter
B-Metro Reporter
NORTHAMPTON Saints have announced the signing of Zimbabwean rugby prop, Cleopas Kundiona, from French Pro D2 side Uson Nevers, for the 2025-26 season.
The 26-year-old, who has made 49 appearances for Nevers, including 37 starts, will join the Premiership club ahead of the upcoming season. Kundiona, at 6’0” and 124kg, is known for his strength in the set-pieces as well as his impressive mobility around the pitch.
Kundiona’s move to Saints makes him the second Zimbabwean to play for the club, following Brian Mujati, who was with the Saints from 2009 to 2013.
Kundiona, who helped Zimbabwe win the 2024 Africa Cup, will be key in the team’s future as they aim to qualify for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
Saints Director of Rugby, Phil Dowson expressed excitement about the new signing.
“We initially spoke with Cleopas about 18 months ago, and we have continued to track his progress at Nevers. Playing regularly in Pro D2 is no easy task, and Cleopas has shown significant skill and power on the field. He’s big, fast and incredibly strong and we believe he can make a major impact within our front row.” Kundiona’s rugby journey began at Falcon College in Zimbabwe, where his technical maturity and power caught the eyes of selectors. At just 19 years old, he made his senior debut for Zimbabwe at tighthead prop. He later moved to the Hollywoodbets Sharks in South Africa, where he trained alongside renowned Springbok props, before moving to Stade Olympique Chambéry in France’s National League. His standout performances in the third-tier league led to his move to Nevers, where he has played ever since.
Kundiona spoke on the move.
“Saints is a club with great heritage and after speaking with the coaches, it felt like the right place for me to develop my game further. I’m extremely grateful for this opportunity, and I’m excited to join a team with such passionate supporters and top-class facilities.”
Kundiona, who is eager to test himself in the Premiership, added, “The league is definitely faster than Pro D2, and I have already watched plenty of Saints’ matches. I’m looking forward to joining the team and contributing to the club’s success. As a prop, my primary focus is scrummaging, but I also love getting involved around the pitch and helping to put my teammates into space. Defensively, I enjoy the physicality and being in the fight.”
Kundiona is ready to embrace the challenge of playing in one of the world’s toughest rugby leagues
Bongani Ndlovu